Why So Few 3 inch Revolvers ?

I have tried for years to objectively define why a 3" beats anything else. So far I cannot articulate anything more scientific than braggin rights and sex appeal. Either of which is good enough for me. As some of you point out, the shape of the butt and size of the grips are more critical concealment issues than length of barrel.

For IWB or mexican style carry, 4 inches probably beats anything shorter OR longer. That particular length is the "just right" compromise for keeping the gun in your waistband or holster and being able to draw and present it.

By the way, what is a 3" M-13 RB worth these days?(with factory spurless hammer.)


Shoot often and safely
 
I've got 3" wheelguns in J-, K-, and N-frame sizes; I think they're swell. ;)

As to their CCW advantage, it's when carried OWB under a light jacket or overshirt; there's 1" less barrel to dangle below the belt than on a 4" gun of the same frame size. Plus, some folks carry 2" or 2.5" guns in a holster for individual weight or space reasons, but these don't have a full-length ejector rod, while a 3" gun does.
 
i really like the 3 inch barrell because it adresses all my concerns in a combat handgun. i've said it before;leave bullet performance to the hunters.3 inch advantages for the real world:
1)high weapon retention
2)fast into action/clearing leather
3)short sight radius for real gun fights
4)allows full ejector rod
5)concealment advantages
-i consider the fact that it's smart to carry the same gun on and off duty:be prepared for the adrenaline effect,and KISS. the faster you clear leather,the more time you can take aim. since your reacting to a violent situation,chances are you'll be the last to have your gun out.everything should be fluid,and familiar.most gun fights happen at ranges where grappling could easily take place. don't give your opposition as much gun to grab as you have in your hand.a mix of point and aimed technique are what i practice.
 
Sometimes when the manufacturers won't cooperate you just have to take matters into your own hands. Over the years I've had smithys shorten several of my revolvers; it's not that big a deal. That said, I share your affection for 3 inchers. When a holster isn't handy they fit very securely in a back jean pocket.
 
I have a 3" GP100 and I think its a great gun. The only problem I have is trying to find a good paddle holster for it. Besides getting one custom made, most manufacturers dont have a 3" production model.
 
One of my favorite carry guns, is my Smith Mod 60-3. this is a three inch, brush chromed, DA0 (no hammer spur at all, and it will not stay at full cock if cocked manually), with fixed sights. The .38 Special cartridge I like best in this gun, is the Federal NyClad 125 grain +P HP. I carry it behind the right hip, in a Saddle style holster by Sam Andrews.
 
SP 101

My Ruger SP 101 is a 3" revolver and it shoots great. Initially I didn't like the small grip but after a couple trips to the range, I've grown to enjoy shooting it as much as my 1911!!! The perfect revolver!!! :)
 
I can think of at least four revolvers currently cataloged with 3" barrels.
Smith M60
Smith M64
LS M65
Ruger SP101

I suspect that if LE didn't go over to pistols in the 1980's and the FBI still carried the 3" M13 with round butt this config. would be very popular today
 
I had a Lew Horton 3" RB S&W 66.

Bought it for $325 in the '80's. It was stolen and recovered 5 or so years later.

I SOLD it! :(

Because I'm an idiot.

Damn thing came BACK to me and I didn't see it as fate.

I'd love to have it back or a 3" RB 19 now.

Course it's still out there in town I'm sure, I won't see it for $325 again.

The Hi-Viz sights are dog ugly, if the performance center made one with a real front sight I'd buy it in a second.

Damn, now I'm in a bad mood.
 
3-incher

Since I do not wear so big pockets to store a 3-incher, I feel it necessary to wear at the hip or under shoulder.
It's more comfortable at the hip.
Since here it is necessary to carry concealed - and that means that nothing look down under a jacket I carry in an inside.
And there a 4-incher sits better due to a longer heavier barrel.
Otherwise it is not so long to interfere with the seat.
I admit that it must be drawn one inch higher but if accustomed that is no problem.
And the pointing quality of a muzzle-heavy 4-incher is a lot over a light semi-snubby.
See Bill Jordans great book "No second Placa Winner".
wfg. b.
 
Why a 3"???

I own a Dan Wesson 357 3" SS and I love it for all the hundred reasons mentioned above. It is well balanced, conceals easily, and is extremely accurate. I also shoot it in a local BUG Defensive Pistol matchs.

Own other more expensive guns but this one is a "keeper."
 
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